As Welcoming Week 2024 draws to a close, we take this opportunity to reflect on the connections made and stories shared. It was a privilege for us to visit classrooms, engage with   students, and hear about their personal experiences. The courage shown by all was deeply touching, reminding us of the strength of resilience and the power of community. 

We would like to thank the senior leaders from RRC Polytech who participated in Welcoming Week including  Fred Meier, President, Dr. Christine Watson, Vice-President, Academic, Jamie Wilson, Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development, Dr. Jeanine Webber, Executive Director, Academic, and Kerri Korabelnikov, Dean, School of Education, Arts and Sciences.  

As we celebrate Welcoming Week at RRC Polytech, I’m reminded of the power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels they belong. Welcoming is not just a gesture—it’s about building lasting relationships and showing that no matter where you come from, you have a place here.

At RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI), we understand that moving to a new country comes with unique challenges, especially for internationally educated health professionals striving to continue their careers. That’s why we’ve designed our health programs to teach critical communication skills and foster a sense of belonging and confidence. As we celebrate Welcoming Week 2024 from September 13th to 20th, we’re proud to highlight the experiences of students who have navigated these challenges and emerged stronger, ready to contribute to Canada’s healthcare system.

CNI/LTC Students- Check your class BINGO card for a chance to win some great prizes!

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As we take part in Welcoming Week 2024, it’s essential to look back on the initiatives that have played a crucial role in helping newcomers build vital skills and integrate into their new community. Earlier this year, RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) hosted a dynamic networking event for CLB 7/8 students at the Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. This event aimed to provide students with an opportunity to practice networking skills, including small talk, elevator pitches, and general conversation skills in English. 

Celebrating Welcoming Week 2024 is an ideal time to reflect on the impactful events that have helped newcomers feel welcomed into the community. Earlier this year, RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) partnered with the Manitoba Museum to host a special evening for CNI students and their families—a night that exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and learning that Welcoming Week is all about. 

The week of September 13^th to September 20^th is Welcoming Week. This is an annual opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places and values that help everyone feel welcome and give them a sense of belonging in their local community.

Students at the Centre for Newcomer Integration’s Language Training Centre in Steinbach were asked to reflect on the ways that they were welcomed since arriving in Canada, and to share stories about the people who have helped them along the way.

RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) is pleased to warmly welcome Carmen Puente in her new role as Strategy Coordinator.

At RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI), we believe in creating a welcoming environment where every newcomer feels they belong and have the tools to succeed. This commitment was recently demonstrated through our successful collaboration with Computers for Schools Manitoba, where we provided essential technology to help newcomers thrive in their educational and professional pursuits. 

Welcoming Week 2024 is here! From September 13th to 20th, we at RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) are excited to join communities across Canada in recognizing and celebrating the people, places, and values that help everyone feel welcome and that they belong. This week is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and celebrating the diverse contributions that newcomers bring to our community. 

What is Welcoming Week? 

Welcoming Week is an annual Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) event. It’s a time to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts that create welcoming communities where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive. At RRC Polytech’s CNI, these values resonate deeply with our mission to support newcomers in their journey.  

How You Can Participate 

We have an exciting lineup of activities and events planned throughout the week to celebrate and engage with our diverse community: 

Student Stories: 

Throughout the week, we will be sharing personal stories from CNI students. These narratives will highlight their experiences as newcomers to Canada, the challenges they’ve faced, and the triumphs they’ve achieved. These stories will not only inspire but also remind us of the strength and resilience that newcomers bring to the community. 

Welcoming Week Community Resource Fair: 

Join us at the Roundhouse (E240) on September 16th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and September 17th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM for our Community Resource Fair. This is a fantastic opportunity to: 

• Meet CNI staff and learn more about the programs and services we offer. 
• Connect with community organizations that provide valuable resources and services for newcomers. 
• Enjoy free refreshments and snacks while mingling with community members. 
• Take a selfie at the Welcoming Week photo booth and write a welcome message . Share your photos on social media with #WelcomingWeek2024 and tag @RRCPolytech. 

Why It Matters 

Creating a welcoming community is a shared responsibility. When we embrace diversity and inclusivity, we not only enrich our cultural landscape but also foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This week is a reminder that successful integration is a two-way street: the more welcoming we are as a community, the more newcomers will feel at home and be able to contribute to our shared future. 

Get Involved! 

Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time resident, there’s something for everyone during Welcoming Week. We encourage you to participate in the events, share your own stories of welcoming or being welcomed, and help spread the message of inclusion on social media. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #WelcomingWeek2024 and tag @RRCPolytech in your posts! 

Let’s come together to celebrate what makes RRC Polytech, the Centre for Newcomer Integration, and Canada great: our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and the shared goal of creating communities where everyone belongs.